Congratulations to Ohio Governor John Kasich for accepting the millions in federal dollars that come with the expansion of Medicaid in 2014. The homeless of Ohio appreciate that they will have an easier time receiving life sustaining health care. The savings that our local hospitals save with federal reimbursements can go to expand mental health care and dental assistance. Right now almost 90% of the homeless population are not eligible for health care insurance. In the near future, all the programs in Cleveland that serve the lowest income will be able to move some of their clients onto Medicaid. This will allow them to use local funds to expand safety net services such as Alcohol and Drug treatment, eyecare, dental care, or mental health services depending on priorities.

This expansion in Ohio will lead to a healthier state and a work force that is ready to work. It will improve the environment for job creation to be prepared to compete with other states. It will not put as at a disadvantage compared to states that already cover the majority of their population such as Massachusetts and the dozens of states which will also expand coverage in the next few years. This coupled with the focus on preventative healthcare in the law will reduce the chances that lower income people will be bankrupted by healthcare expenses that spirals out of control and often leads families to the shelters. The local Alcohol and Mental Health Board estimates that 80,000 residents of Cuyahoga County will find insurance because of this expansion and 600,000 Ohioans.

We will continue to monitor and keep people updated on the impact of these decisions on the local level.